Marie Rymer

Marie Rymer, age 96, beloved mother, grandmother, and gentle soul, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 11, 2024.

One of two children born to Frank and Anna Carnevale, Marie grew up in Paterson, NJ where she went to Central High School. Immediately after High School, Marie got to work in an office setting – a move that would unpredictably lead her to meeting the love of her life.

Marie and Joseph’s love story began unexpectedly through the matchmaking efforts of the office mailman. Realizing his friend Joseph might take an interest in Marie, the mailman facilitated an introduction by having Joe make the daily mail drop-off at Marie’s office one fateful day. The pair instantly hit it off and the love letters began. On Christmas Eve, with the streets filled with celebrants departing from Mass, Joseph seized the perfect romantic moment to propose to Marie right in front of her home’s picture window. She said yes and the couple tied the knot on April 23rd, 1949, at St. Mary’s Church in their hometown. Over the years, Marie and Joseph were blessed with four children: Patty, Joe, Elaine, and Janet. She was the heart of the home while being very involved in her children’s schooling as a class mom and Girl Scout leader.

Marie and Joe had a love for adventure. Surprise road trips to the World’s Fair (8 times!), Palisades Park, and the Jersey Shore, to name a few, were special times they shared with their children. These “mystery rides” they planned were so enjoyed by the kids, along with backyard pool parties during the summer time. The family began their Jersey shore vacations in Ortley Beach, Atlantic City, and Long Beach Island, which ultimately inspired them to purchase a Beach Haven home in 1981.

As their children grew older, their love for travel expanded internationally. Encouraged by their son Joe, they traveled annually to many destinations including England, Scotland, Italy, Morocco, Bermuda, and Hawaii.

Marie and Joe enjoyed a loving partnership of nearly four decades together. Unfortunately, Joe passed away in October of 1987, but their love and devotion never dwindled. Marie, being the strong woman she was, worked hard navigating the ups and downs of life. Her family provided much support and she was forever grateful for the help of Elaine’s husband Richie (d. 2020), as he tackled projects too great for her alone.

A devout parishioner at St. Mary’s Church in her lifelong hometown of Paterson, Marie found one of her greatest passions in life through her involvement in the parish’s Rosary Altar Society. This group of women became like a second family to Marie, bonded by their shared faith and love of travel. She took great pride in helping to organize the Society’s bus trips that took them to destinations on the East Coast and other church fundraising activities. Whether coordinating the logistics or simply enjoying the camaraderie, these excursions allowed Marie’s generous spirit to flourish as she fostered fellowship and forged cherished friendships. Her decades-long dedication to the group was a testament to her values.

Marie was close with all her children. With Patty, they had a unique relationship. They enjoyed watching soap operas, going Christmas shopping, seeing Frank Sinatra in concert, enjoying a cup of tea and good conversation. Elaine and Janet loved spending time with their mother. Whether it be simple daily tasks, special occasions or memorable vacations, Marie always cherished being a part of their growing families. Adventures only continued, as great grandchildren added more blessings to her life.

Marie was the sweetest and kindest person you could meet. She had a heart of gold and it was obvious to everyone she came in contact with. She never displayed anger and more notably, she never complained. She was tough and persevered through all of the challenges life presented her with. She never had a harsh word to say about anyone and she will be dearly missed by all that were blessed enough to have known her.

Marie is survived by her 4 children: Patricia Rymer of Wayne, Joseph Rymer and his wife Jan of Cape May, Elaine Navarro of West Milford, and Janet Fabiano and her husband Bob of Wayne; her 4 grandchildren: Erin Samples and her husband Brian, Lauren Rendine and her husband Luke, Christina Fabiano and her fiancé Chase, and Frankie Fabiano; and her 5 great-grandchildren: Matthew, Adam, Brooke, Hannah, and Ricky.

Marie is predeceased by her parents, Frank and Anna Carnevale, her brother Frank Carnevale and his wife Fran, her brother-in-law Al Rymer and his wife Helen, her nephew Dan Carnevale, her beloved husband Joseph and her cherished son-in-law Richard Navarro (Richie).